The Costa Serena is set to make its return to mainland China in September 2024. This comeback marks a significant moment for Costa Cruises, which has been absent from the country for four years. The ship will embark on a variety of cruises from Shenzhen and Hong Kong.
Local reports indicate that these operations will be conducted in cooperation with a Chinese travel agency and will include a total of 12 sailings. The itineraries, which range from four to five nights, will take passengers to several destinations in Japan and Vietnam, including Okinawa, Naha, Miyako Island, the Yaeyama Islands, and Da Nang.
Bookings for these sailings can be made through Foshan Kouan International Travel Service, with cruises scheduled to run from September 24 to November 10, 2024.
Following an extensive refurbishment, the Costa Serena boasts new dining options and a refreshed appearance, according to the cruise organizers. The ship has been operating in Asia since resuming service in May 2023, offering routes from various countries in the region.
After completing a series of cruises in India in late 2023, the Costa Serena returned to Southeast Asia in early 2024 for a brief cruise season in Malaysia. It has since repositioned to Taiwan, where it is currently running a series of short cruises to destinations in Japan and South Korea. In December, the vessel plans to return to Malaysia for another local program, with departures from Port Klang.
Constructed at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, the Costa Serena is one of the older vessels still in service for Costa Cruises. Launched in 2007, it is a sister ship to the Costa Pacifica and has primarily focused on the Chinese and other Asian markets since 2015.
The ship features a themed interior inspired by ancient Roman and Greek mythology and offers a range of amenities, such as a large wellness center, three pool decks, multiple lounges, a water slide, and four dining venues..
